Method and apparatus for playing theme-based simulated golf game

ABSTRACT

The methods and apparatuses of the present invention provide golfers with improved training and simulated golf game opportunities, particularly when practiced in conjunction with the innovative scoring targets disclosed herein.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 61/559,369, entitled “Method and Apparatus for Playing Theme-BasedSimulated Golf Game,” the contents of which are hereby incorporated byreference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of Invention

This invention pertains to the art of methods and apparatuses for atheme-based simulated game of golf; and more particularly, for methodsand apparatuses for playing a simulated game of golf in less time and toimprove the effect of practice time on a driving range, practicefacility, or any venue or location where golf balls can be hit; and mostparticularly to methods and apparatuses of simulating a golf game whichinvolves segregating the various golf shots into various categories,providing theme-based scoring targets for those shots, and thenproviding an objectively measurable percentage-based or numericalscoring scale to assign value to the accuracy of such shots, therebyproviding a standardized scoring mechanism enabling persons to play thissimulated golf game against their previous scores, against competitors,and against others in remote locations.

2. Description of the Related Art

The game of golf is well known and is enjoyed by many people around theworld. It is also well known to play simulated golf games electronicallyand in actual physical space. However, to this point, it has not beenknown to play a theme-based simulated golf game, as described herein,where certain golf shots are segregated into category, directed to aspecified and standardized scoring target, and wherein an objective,percentage-based or a numerical rating based, or any form of scoringscale of those shots is provided so that the results of the simulatedgolf game can be tabulated and scored against other persons, orpreviously simulated golf games, to measure progress and to find andidentify deficient areas in one's golf game. Moreover, the standardizedscoring target apparatuses described herein—which can be used inassociation with the aforementioned game, or merely for golftraining—are previously unknown.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one aspect of the present invention, several objects of thepresent invention are the provision of a standardized scoring systemwhereby one's performance in a simulated golf game may be measuredagainst one's previous efforts, or the efforts of others, whereby localand even international competitions can be had using this standardizedgolf game.

Another objective of the invention is to provide an accurate theme-basedsimulated golf experience in an area of limited size, in that acompletely simulated and accurate golf game can be played in a muchsmaller area, without expensive, permanent, or damaging retrofitting ofexisting golf practice facilities, even without the necessity of aformal golf practice facility. Any man-made or natural setting orstructure may be used to hit golf balls into, onto, over, underneath orthrough a scoring target, including water surfaces or hitting into waterfrom any land, structure or vessel.

Another advantage of the invention is the provision of an accuratesimulation of a golf game which can be played in a much shorter periodof time—perhaps as little as 30 minutes—and from/on a natural grass teebox, due to the substantially portable nature of the scoring targets.This also includes the option to play from a fixed set of tee boxes orany structure, as determined by the owner of the game.

Another objective of the invention is to provide a training methodwhereby time spent at a practice facility, practice putting green ordriving range can be closely simulated to an actual game of golf and canbe used to better improve one's actual golf game.

Another objective is to provide entrepreneurs the ability to provide agolf game which they previously could not provide due to issues of costor space.

Another objective is to re-attract golfers who have left the gamebecause they do not have the time or money to play traditional golf.

Another objective is to make the game more accessible for children. Mosttraditional sporting games provide an opportunity for young children inthe 3-9 age group to participate in an appropriate setting, golf doesnot.

Another objective is to open the market to women who currently compriseonly 4-5 percent of all golfers.

Another objective is to make golf more accessible to the elderly, orgolfers with physical handicaps that make traditional golf difficult.

Another objective is to have a game that provides an easier and lessintimidating way for new golfers to take up the game of Golf.

Another objective is to provide distance-based scoring targets for usein association with the simulated golf game, or for stand-alone generalgolf training sessions.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, a scoring targetfor use in association with a simulated golf game, or golf trainingsession, comprises: footers comprising a substantially planar plateadapted to stably support the scoring target on an associated groundsurface in an assembled position, at least two receiving tubes adaptedto releasably receive and secure an associated pole and net support, anda flag tube adapted to releasably secure an associated target flag;poles adapted to bend in an upward arch when operatively received andsecured within associated footer receiving tubes; net supports adaptedto adapted to bend in an upward arch when received and secured withinassociated footer receiving tubes; netting having outer edges withfasteners adapted to releasably secure the netting to associated poles,and inner portions with fasteners adapted to releasably secure thenetting to associated net supports; and one or more target flags;wherein the footers are located on an associated ground surface; whereinbent poles are operatively received within receiving tubes, releasablyattached to netting via fasteners, and connect said footers and supportthe outer edges of netting; wherein bent net supports are operativelyreceived within receiving tubes, releasably attached to netting viafasteners, and connect said footers and support the inner portions ofnetting; wherein the target flag is releasably secured within said flagtube and is situated in a substantially vertical position relative toaground surface; and wherein the netting defines a scoring zone whensupported in a position above the ground surface by the arrangement ofpoles, net supports, and footers.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, A scoringtarget for use in association with a simulated golf game, or golftraining session, comprising: substantially non-deformable pegs adaptedto support an associated panel; fasteners adapted to releasably securesaid pegs to an associated panel; and an arrangement of two or morepanels, wherein said panels are releasably secured to pegs withfasteners and extend vertically from an associated ground surface in aconfiguration that defines a scoring zone.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention may take physical form in certain parts and arrangement ofparts, and at least one embodiment of the invention is set forth in thefollowing description and illustrated in the accompanying drawings whichform a part hereof and wherein, and is particularly and distinctlypointed out and set forth in the appended claims:

FIG. 1 shows a top-perspective view of the present invention accordingto one embodiment.

FIG. 2 shows aground level perspective view of the present inventionaccording to one embodiment.

FIG. 3 shows another ground level perspective view of the presentinvention according to one embodiment.

FIG. 4 shows a top view of the present invention according to oneembodiment.

FIG. 5 shows a slightly different top-perspective view of the presentinvention according to one embodiment.

FIG. 6 shows a top-perspective view of the present invention accordingto another embodiment.

FIG. 7 shows a ground level perspective view of an assembled scoringtarget panel of the present invention according to one embodiment.

FIG. 8 shows a partial cross-sectional ground level perspective view ofa scoring target's assembled peg and ground socket, according to oneembodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 9A and 9B, (“Scorecards”) (1 and 2), show embodiments of thescoring system of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION O HE INVENTION

Referring now to the drawings, wherein the showings are for the purposesof illustrating embodiments of the invention only and not for thepurposes of limiting the same, and wherein like reference numerals areunderstood to refer to like components, this detailed descriptionutilizes standard golf terminology, as is well known in the art, andshould not be read to include limitations a person of ordinary skillwould not necessarily impute. In the preferred embodiment of the presentinvention, a theme-based simulated golf game consists of a series ofsegregated golf shots intended to simulate a round of golf, butpermitting such a round of golf to occur in a relatively short timeframe, and without substantial physical exertion typically associatedwith walking a regulation golf course, due to all of the game's golfshots occurring on one of two locations: a tee box or boxes, and/or aputting green or greens featuring natural grass or other types ofsurfaces representing a putting green.

In short, the theme-based golf game does not require walking or drivinga golf cart over long distances as is required in a standard game ofgolf. Instead, the simulated golf game is played both from a single teebox or multiple tee boxes, broadly defined as a designated area forhitting golf shots, and/or a putting green or greens, or other types ofsurfaces representing a putting green, broadly defined as an area with ashorter length of grass designed to accommodate putting, as is wellknown in the art. Although the present invention works most convenientlyin association with an existing golf facility having both a “drivingrange” (consisting of both a tee box or boxes, a relatively wide openlanding area for practice shots and a putting green or greens, or asurface that might be substituted for a green's surface,) theapparatuses described herein are also easily adaptable and can be usedon any relatively small area of land or water, or any man-made structureor vessel, capable of accommodating the arrangement of the distancebased scoring targets (also, “SWG targets”) described below and inattached FIGS. 1-8.

The theme-based simulated golf game is played in four sections generallycorresponding to the most common golf shots: drives (most typicallyutilizing the driver, but also any other club the golfer is comfortablehitting from the tee box when playing a par four or a par five hole),approach shots (including fairway wood shots, iron shots, and hybridclubs), chip shots (also referred to as wedge shots), and putts.Accordingly, the simulated golf game of the present invention consistsof four distinct phases, or sections, of game play wherein the playertakes a series of shots similar to those that would be made in a regularround of golf: a driving section, an approach section, a chip shotssection, and a putting section. All of the driving, approach and chipshots are taken, with various golf clubs, from the designated tee boxareas; later followed by a putting section (occurring on the puttinggreen or greens area or a surface that might be substituted for a greenssurface). The number of shots allocated for each of the four sections isgenerally consistent with the number of such shots a player wouldencounter in playing an ordinary round of golf.

For example, most golf courses have 18 holes, consisting of 14 holeswhere the first shot is typically a drive section-type shot (these holesare generally par 4 or par 5 score holes), and 4 holes where the firstshot is typically an approach type shot, hit with a variety of clubs orchip section-type shot (these holes are generally a par 3 score hole).Thus, in the one embodiment of the simulated golf game, the player has14 drive section shots, 18 approach section shots, and 18 pitch sectionshots; each of these shot sections, as noted above, are taken from thedesignated tee box area or areas. The player then moves to thedesignated putting green area or areas, which might be substituted for aputting green area or areas, and makes a total of 27 putt attempts fromvarious distances, according to the putting and scoring systems furtherdetailed below. Thus, in the preferred standardized embodiment of theinvention, hereafter referred to as the “regulation simulated golfgame,” a total of 77 shots would be taken. (In another embodiment, 36putts are attempted and a total of 86 shots would be taken.) In someembodiments of the invention, however, a regulation simulated golf gameof the present invention might also include a limited number of practicegolf shots. And in yet other embodiments, more than one round could bescored for the sake of a competition, or the round could consist of lessor more than 77 shots.

In the aforementioned standardized version of the game, each of thesections of the simulated golf game are preferably “segregated,” whichis to say that each section is to be completed in their entirety beforeproceeding to the next section (ex: player hits 14 consecutive drives,18 consecutive approach shots, 18 consecutive chip shots, and 27consecutive putts.) However, in yet other embodiments of the game,players can play a drive shot, approach shot, iron shot or chip shot,and then a putt shot or shots (in that order) as would generally occurin a regular round of golf, before repeating subsequent golf shots, inthat order (or another order chosen by the player), until the simulatedround is completed.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the segregated shot sectionsrequire the player to make use of specific clubs recognized to be usedin corresponding sections of a regular golf round. For example, in oneembodiment, a player must use a driver or a club that they wouldnormally use from the tee box on a par 4 or par 5 hole on the drivingportion of the game. Since many golfers do not carry a driver or are notable to control a driver, in this embodiment, the player may elect theclub of his choice in the drive section or par 4 or 5 hole, so long asthe club chosen is a 3-wood, a 5-wood, a hybrid club or an iron.Similarly, a player must not use a driver, but otherwise may use anyother approach club on the approach shot portion of the game, includingfairway woods, hybrids, irons and wedges. Likewise, a player may use aclub that is used for pitching, including any club in his or her bagother than a putter or driver, for the chip shot portion of the game;most commonly, an 8 iron, 9 iron, pitching wedge, sand wedge, or othersuch wedge is generally recognized by golfers as being most useful inthe chip shots section. A player must use a putter in the puttingsection.

In other embodiments, the player can select whichever club they choose,without restriction, in all four shot making sections; club selection isunencumbered by the type of shot being attempted.

In each of the shot sections which occur on the tee box or boxes(drives, approach shots, and chip shots) (hereafter “tee box shots”),the player has the goal of hitting the ball—depending on the variousscoring target being utilized—onto, into, below or through a chosenscoring target located in the landing area. The area within a particularscoring target is defined as the “scoring zone.” In the drive sectionshots, for example, the player takes 14 separates shots with theirdriver (or other such long distance club which with hey are comfortablehitting in the driving section), and is awarded a score consistent withthe scoring system disclosed below, based on the golfer's ability to hitan elected scoring target. In one embodiment, for the drive sectionshots the scoring targets are preferably placed at 100 yards, 150 yards,200 yards and 250 yards (optional distances of 300 and 350 yards may beadded, or in another embodiment distances can be placed at differentintervals of yardages, starting at any first target.) The number ofscoring targets is a function of the available land, water area or othervenue and playing options offered at a particular game facility;additionally, more or fewer scoring targets may be located at variouslocations on the landing area. In one embodiment, the approach shottargets are located at 100 yards, 150 yards, and 200 yards; althoughapproach shot targets could fall anywhere between the 50 and the 250yard range, again, depending on the level of skill, age, gender,handicap, or other factors chosen or inherent with a player. In oneembodiment, the chip section shots are located at 25, 50, and 75 yards;however, chip shots could occur at any chosen distances between 5 yardsand 150 yards, depending on the above-referenced factors. In still otherembodiments, the distance of the targets is chosen by the coursedesigner, with the distances varying from 1 to 400 yards.

For each of the tee box shots, the player chooses a specific scoringtarget, takes the shot, and scores by rolling the ball on or under thetarget area (the “scoring zone” defined by the scoring target), and/oroptionally bouncing on or under the target area. A scoring shot can alsoconsist of a ball that hits the scoring target or passes through thescoring target. The player's choice of scoring target—in all of the teeshot sections only—is dependent on any of a number of optional factors,including the player's sex, age, scoring handicap, or other abilityindicator. Additionally, the player may split up their allocatedattempts for a given section based on wanting to work on a specific clubor a variation of clubs. For example, the player may elect to make 7 oftheir total 14 allocated drive section shots at the 250 yard scoringtarget with their driver and the remaining 7 shots at the 200 yardscoring target with a 5-wood. In the preferred embodiment, if the playermisses the elected target they are awarded zero points; however, inother embodiments, a shot landing within a pre-determined proximity ofthe scoring target might be awarded a reduced point total.

In the preferred embodiment, as is shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B (“Scorecard”1 and 2), the points awarded for hitting a scoring target are markedwith an X. A missed target is marked with a zero “0”. An “*” is addedfor a drive section shot that flies over and beyond the intended targetonly when hit with a driver, and not when hit with any other club. Inanother embodiment, scores are consistent with the distance of thetarget hit; for example, hitting the 250 yard target would result in anaward of 250 points, while hitting the 100 yard target would result inthe award of 100 points. In other embodiments, the awarded points mightbe weighted to a greater or lesser extent, for example, to award pointsconsistent with the relative difficulty of hitting a given target;hitting a target at 250 yards might be awarded significantly more pointsthan hitting a target at 100 yards, and the points awarded would notnecessarily have to be tied to the distance of the scoring target.

In the preferred embodiment, in order to accomplish the goal of makingmost efficient use of time, tee box section shots (drives, approachshots, and chip shots) are attempted first, followed by the puttingsection shots, which are attempted on the putting green or greens or anysurface that might be substituted for a green's surface. The specificscoring target apparatuses are discussed in greater detail below, but inone embodiment, each scoring target, beginning with the 25-yard target,becomes progressively larger than the previous targets. Different venueswould allow for different targets or structural elements due topreference, availability of the area needed, and geological or differentencumbrances. In some embodiments, flag poles are placed along the sideto allow for a longer drive that are rewarded with a star, or for anapproach shot that is used to reach an “in-between” distance. Forexample: a club that the golfer hits 125 yards or 175 yards would bebetween the target areas of 100 and 200 yards and not 150 yards. Thegolfer would aim at the closer target, 100 yards for the 125 shot and150 yards for the 175 yard shot. The golfer would score by hitting theball over the closer target and through the flags. They would not scoreif they hit the target; this would have been a miss-hit ball.Additionally the target may be enlarged by adding appendages orproviding a circle or other form with materials, such as rope, piping,or materials available.

After the tee box section shots have been taken, the putting section ofthe game is played. There are three subsets of putting that are played:the lag putt, the middle putt, and the “gimme putt.” For the puttingsection shots, the same 9 balls are used for each of the varieties ofthe subsets of putts. The lag putt attempts are preferably attemptedfirst, and in the preferred embodiment, occur at a distance of 30 feet,although in other embodiments it can be a different distance. The 30foot measurement can be made in a variety of ways. The player can simplystep off 30 feet if desired. In one embodiment, the driving rangeprovides a tape measure attached to a flag in the cup so that the playercan drag the tape measure out to measure 30 feet. In another embodiment,a laser device is placed on the flag which can stripe an arc of 30 feetenabling the player to place his golf balls 30 feet from the hole. Inthe preferred embodiment, the owner marks the correct measurement andpre-sets a mark for all putts. Once the lag putt distance is determinedand marked, a lag putt scoring zone must also be determined by using theabove referenced techniques, or others known to person of skill in theart, to demarcate a 40 inch zone surrounding all sides of the puttinghole. In the preferred embodiment, one way to measure the 40-inch circleis to provide a device with a circular or conical-shaped article so thatthe player can easily see whether the golfer's ball falls under thearticle. In a preferred embodiment, the article is a spider with eightlegs extending, and demarcating, the 40 inch scoring zone from themiddle of the cup. The spider hangs from a device that allows for thespider to be off the ground, and the support device is supported andplaced outside of the scoring zone. Nine balls are putted at the holefrom the lag putt 30-foot distance, or other such chosen lag puttdistance. In the preferred embodiment, scoring for a lag putt sectionputt attempts is “X” plus a “*” for a ball that goes in the hole, “X”for a ball that is within the 40-inch circle of the cup (the lag puttscoring zone), and a “0” for a ball that stops outside of the 40-inchcircle from the cup (outside the scoring zone). In other instances, thecircle may be enlarged or decreased and the spider legs may be replacedby an object that allows for suspension above a golf hole with an easilyvisible circular device with a 40′ circle, and that does not interferewith a putted ball. In other embodiments, the 40 inches may be increasedor decreased.

Next, the middle putts are tested. Middle putts can be of varyingdistances, but generally must all fall within the 6 to 20 foot range. Inthe preferred embodiment, an “X” is awarded for a made putt, a “0” for amissed putt. Putt distances are pre-marked by the course owner. The 9balls are divided into 3 groups of 3 balls. 3 balls are putted from eachof 3 distances—8 feet, 12 feet and 15 feet. The distances may vary and asmall hanging device may be placed over the hole to allow for additionalscoring on putts near the hole.

Finally, the gimme putts are tested. The distances here can be measuredoff in the same measure as described previously and are generally allless than 8 feet. In the preferred embodiment, the gimme putts aremarked at 3, 4, and 5 feet distances. In the preferred embodiment 3balls are putted from the 3 foot mark, 3 are hit from the 4 foot mark,and 3 balls from the 5 foot mark; An “X” is awarded for a made putt, a“0” for a missed putt.

To provide an overview of how the disclosed theme-based simulated golfgame would be played and scored, the following non-limiting example,according to the preferred disclosed embodiment of the invention, isprovided. In the preferred embodiment, the golfer receives an “X” forall targets hit and a “0” for missed targets. Additionally, the golfermay earn a “*” for a driver hit over the intended target, or a putt madefrom the lag putt distance. The golfer counts all of his X's in each ofthe six scoring columns. The X's represent the numerator of a fractionof well hit balls. The golfer totals all six columns and can comparetheir score against themselves or against a competitor. If the target isenlarged by the addition of another element, scoring in the enlargedarea would result in a lesser percentage.

As an example of scoring in the preferred embodiment, first the playergoes to the driving range's tee box or boxes to make their tee boxsection shots (drives, approach shots, and chip shots). If the playerhits 14 drives, and 4 go over the target while 4 hit the target, hisdrive section would include 8 X's, 4 stars, and 6 (0's). In the approachsection, the player hits 18 approach shots. If 9 of 18 hit the targetaimed for, and 6 shots exceed the target and go through the flags asintended, his approach section would show 15 X's, and three 0's. Theplayer must hit 6 balls at each of the chip shot targets or six at 25yards; six at 50 yards; and six at 75 yards. If the player hits all 3targets with 3 balls and misses all 3 targets with 3 balls, the playerwould have hit 9 of 18 total shots and the players scorecard wouldrecord a total of nine X's and nine 0's.

Next, the player moves to the putting green to make their putt sectionshot attempts. The player always marks an “X” for a make, and a “0” fora miss. Starting with the lag putt section, the player receives an “X”and a “*” (star) for a made putt. In this section, the player hits all 9balls from 30 feet. Assuming the player hit 5 balls that remain underthe legs (this is considered a make), and one of those 5 putts went intothe hole, the player would receive a score of 5 X's and 1*, with the “*”indicating a superior putt (XXXXX*). The player then moves to the middleputts. The player putts 3 balls at the 8′ mark, 3 balls at the 12′ mark,and 3 balls at the 15′ mark. Each putt made earns an X. (Example: 9putted balls, 4 made=XXXX). Finally, the player finishes with the gimmeputts. The player putts 3 balls from 3 feet; 3 balls from 4 feet and 3balls from 5 feet. Example: 9 putted balls with 6 putts made, isrecorded as 6 X's or (XXXXXX.) In the preferred embodiment the totalscore of the example game described above would be as follows:

-   -   1. Drive Section: the player has 8 X's; 4 *'s; 6 0's    -   2. Approach Section: the player has 15 X's and 3 0's    -   3. Chip Shots: player has 9 X's and 9 0's    -   4. Lag Putts: player has 5 X's, 1* and 4 0's    -   5. Middle Putts: player has 4 X's, 5 0's    -   6. Gimme Putts: player has 6 X's, 3 0 's

The X's are counted and serve as the numerator of the fraction of ballswell hit. In this example, the player has a total raw score of 47 wellhit shots out of total shots. The percentage of well hit shots is 61percent. (Stars do not have a point value, but indicate exceptionalshots to help the golfer analyze his strengths.) The player may alsofigure each individual shot section percentage or the total tee boxshots or putts. In this example, his overall putting percentage would be15/27 or 56%.

In another embodiment, the player makes identical shots to the shotsmade in the preferred embodiment. In this embodiment, a point systemreplaces the X's, 0's and *'s. The player is attempting to hit the 250yard scoring target with 10 shots, and hits 4 targets, he also hits fourballs over the 250 yard target earning a bonus with 4 exceptionaldrives. The player also attempts to hit the remaining four balls at the200 yard target with his 5 wood. The player misses all 4 of these shots.In this scenario, the player is awarded 250 points 8 times, or 2000points. The player would have 6 zeroes for missed shots. A 25 pointbonus for each of the 4 balls driven over the target with his driver, hewould receive an additional 4×25 points or 100 points. The player'sdrive section points would be 2000 plus 100=2100 points.

Next, the player elects to split their 18 approach section shots in asimilar fashion. The player hits 9 targets (3 at 200, 3 at 150 and 3 at100 yards.) Additionally the player intentionally flies over threetargets, using in-between clubs. The approach score would be 3×200 plus3×150 plus 3×100 plus (a bonus for the three targets flown overintentionally earning 200, 150 and 100) or (600+450+300+200+150+100) or1800 points.

Finally the player concludes their tee box shots with 18 chip shotattempts: 6 shots directed at the 25 yard scoring target, and 6 shots atthe 50 yard scoring target and 6 shots at the 75 yard target. The playerhits the 25 yard target twice for a 50 point award (2×25=50), and hitsthe 50 yard target 4 times for a 200 point award (4×50=200), and hitsthe 75 yard target 3 times for another 225 points. (3×75=225), resultingin a total chip shot section point award of 475 points. The total scoreawarded for tee box section shots is 4375 (2100+1800+475) points. Inthis scoring system, a larger target area could be implemented as in thepreferred embodiment, with fewer points awarded.

In this embodiment, the player moves to the putting green, greens or asurface that might be substituted for a greens surface. First, theplayer hits 9 lag putt attempts at a distance of 30 feet. 4 putts cometo rest in the 40 inch radius of the lag putt scoring zone and one puttis made 1100 points (4 putts×200+300 for a made putt). 4 of the puttsfall outside of the lag putt scoring zone (resulting in a deduction of200 points; 4 putts outside the scoring zone X a 50 point deduction=−200points. The total score for lag putt attempts is (1100−200) or 900points.

The player then takes 9 middle putts, making 3 of their 3 attempts from8 feet (3×8×10 points per putt=240 points), one of their three attemptsfrom 12 feet 1×12×10 points per putt=120 points), and zero of theirthree attempts from 15 feet (for 0 points); all missed middle putts areawarded zero points, for a total of 360 (240+120+0) total middle puttpoints.

The player then completes his gimme putts. In this embodiment, theplayer scores 60 points for making 2 of their 3 attempted 3 foot putts(2×3×10 points per foot), 80 points for successfully making 2 of their 3four foot putts (2×4×10 points per foot), and 100 points for making 2 oftheir three putts from 5 feet (2×5×10 points per foot); the total of 240points is awarded for made gimme putts. However, by missing a gimme putta player is penalized −250 points. Therefore the 3 missed putt attemptsis −750 points (3×−250 points) the total gimme putt points score is atotal of 240 points made −750 penalty points or −510 points.

The total points awarded for the putting section putts is 900 for lagputts, 360 for middle putts, and −510 for gimme putts which equal 750points. The total points awarded in the theme-based simulated golf gamedescribed above is 4900 points (4375 for tee box shots+750 for puttingsection shots=5125 points.) As in the other scoring methodology, theplayer can see that their putting was not nearly as effective as therest of their game.

By playing the game in the preferred manner or the second embodiment, atotal of 50 balls are hit at the driving range's tee box, with 14 ballssimulating drives, 18 balls simulating approach shots. and 18 simulatingchip shots. Then, 3 sets of nine balls are used on the putting green tosimulate 27 total putts: 9 lag putts, 9 middle putts, and 9 gimme putts.The objective percentages or points scored provide for a comparison ofone's past games or can be compared to another golfer. Spider Web Golfallows for either way of play. Other methods of scoring are availableand this game's scoring may be modified according to one's preferences.However. the two primary scoring methods can provide a standardizedscoring mechanism where a person in Ohio can play a game of golfremotely from a person playing the same game in South Carolina, buttheir scores can be compared and competition can ensue. In otherembodiments, the “X,” “0,” and “*” can be replaced with any othersymbol, number or letter capable of designating corresponding scoringtotals.

The tangible items received by the purchasers of this invention, thesimulated golf game, can include but are not limited to targets,structures, netting, scorecards, signage, a personalized marketing kit,course evaluation, instructions, ideas about different variations,personal customer service, website rules, website assistance and websitescoring, as well as other links to golf rules, suggested practicemethods and tips if a golf professional is not available.

A scorecard is helpful for illustrating how scores conveniently can berecorded and the game can be played. With reference to FIGS. 9A and 9B,a non-limiting example of some potential scoring systems scorecards areshown.

The targets used in Spider Web Golf may vary from one venue to another.This difference in target design could be because of natural land orwater formations, weather conditions, cost, creativity of the owner,architectural detail, or visual preference.

According to one embodiment, however, the scoring apparatus of theinvention is shown in FIGS. 1-5. This embodiment of the scoring target10 is a generally square shaped apparatus with a variable size,depending on at least the factors described above, but includingspecifically apparatuses with sides 11 that are 10, 15, 20 and 25 feet.In other embodiments, the shape can be rectangular or any other shape,or size, chosen a by a person of skill in the art.

The apparatus shown in FIGS. 1-5 consists of three separate components:footers 20, poles 30, and netting 40. Broadly speaking, the footers 20are operatively designed to releasably receive and secure the poles 30,while also stably securing the scoring target 10 to a ground surface. Inturn, the poles 30 are designed to be received within the footers 20 andto otherwise operatively attach to and support the netting 40. Whenassembled, the scoring target 10, as shown in FIG. 1, has footers 20situated at the outer corners of a square shape, wherein the footers 20are operatively connected via the poles 30, while the poles 30 areattached to and support the netting 40, which is raised above the groundsurface in a manner that defines a “scoring zone” (SZ).

In some embodiments of the invention, the footer 20 is a substantiallyplanar plate, made of steel or other such solid material as might bechosen by a person of skill in the art, designed to operatively receivepoles 30. In some embodiments, the footers 20 are also operativelydesigned to receive and secure one or more net supports 60. In someembodiments, the footer may have one or more apertures 21 (not shown)designed to operatively and securely receive at least a portion of thepoles 30 or net supports 60. In other embodiments, the footers 20 mayhave receiving tubes 22 extending vertically from the planar surface ofthe footer 20 at an angle designed to operatively receive the poles 30,and/or net supports 60, as shown in FIG. 1. In some embodiments, thefooters 20 may also have one or more holes 24 for receiving stakes 26(not shown) which are driven into the soil so as to releasably securethe footers 20 to the ground surface. In some embodiments, the footers20 also have a flag tube 28 that is designed to releasably receive andsecure one or more target flags 29 adapted to delineate a pass-throughscoring shot achieved by passing a bass through the distal end of thescoring zone. In other embodiments, the footers 20 may contain otherpole 30 or net support 60 securing mechanisms, as would be recognized bypersons of skill in the art. In some embodiments, the footers 20 mightconsist only of a stake having integrated pole 30 and net support 60securing mechanisms integrated thereon. In still other embodiments, thefooters 20 have one or more means, such as a hole or other securingdevice, for secure attachment of an adjustment belt 50.

The poles 30 and net supports 60 are operatively designed of a shape andsize that permits them to be securely engaged within the footer's 20apertures 21, receiving tubes 22, or other pole securing mechanism(collectively, “securing mechanism”). The poles 30 generally define thescoring target sides 11, and support the outer edges 44 of the netting40. In contrast, the net supports 60 generally support the innerportions of the netting 40, as is shown in one non-limitingconfiguration, in FIG. 1. As is well known in the art, the poles 30 andnetting supports 60 are made of a deformable material—such asfiberglass, plastics, metals or other materials chosen by a person ofskill in the art—that permits them to be selectively bent, such as iscommonly utilized in the assembly of a tent, and as further describedherein, when positioned and secured within the footers' 20 securingmechanisms. The poles 30 and net supports 60 can be of a single-piecedesign, or consist of multiple pieces designed to be securely assembledinto a single piece. In some embodiments, the poles 30 and net supports60 are hollow tubes containing an elastic cord known in the art as“shock corded” poles—that keeps the various pieces linked together butotherwise permits easy assembly and disassembly. In other embodiments,the poles 30 are connected by other attachment devices widely known inthe art, including but not limited to, ferrules, suction devices, nuts,bolts, and pins. The poles 30 are of a length that—when selectivelypositioned within the securing mechanisms of two footers 30, andaccounting for the arch further described herein—produces a scoringtarget 10 having sides 11 and outer edges 44 with a chosen—but asfurther described herein, adjustable—length. The net supports 60 are ofa length that selectively and adjustably supports the netting 40, and asfurther described herein, define the shape of the netting 40.

The netting 40 consists of a net, or other such cloth or synthetic ornatural material as is well-known and might be chosen by a person ofskill in the art, that is capable of being operatively attached to, andsupported by, the poles 30 and net supports 60. In a preferredembodiment, the netting 40 consists of a net or fabric material that ispartially elastic when stretched. In one embodiment, the netting 40 isdesigned to be of approximately the same size and shape of the intendedsize of the scoring target 10, as is shown in FIGS. 1-5; in otherembodiments, the netting 40 may be of a different size, as might bechosen by a person of skill in the art, to accommodate higher or lowerarches HA, LA as further described below. In one embodiment, the netting40 is of a substantially square shape and has one or more net fasteners42 on each of the four outer edges 44, In other embodiments, the netting40 may have one or more net fasteners 42 positioned inwards of the outeredges 44, as is shown in FIG. 1, for securing net supports 60 to thenetting 40. In various embodiments, the net fasteners 42 may consist ofhooks, hook-and-loop fasteners, sleeves, or other means for releasablereceiving and securing the netting 40 to the poles 30, as might bechosen by a person of ordinary skill in the art. In one embodiment, thenetting 40 is defined by a ribbon of material at the outer edges 44 ofeach side, of the same or a different color than the netting material,that comprises a sleeve capable of receiving a substantial length of thepole 30, as is shown in FIG. 1. In other embodiments, the outer edges 44of the netting 40 may merely be of a different, and highly visible,color as compared to the rest of the netting, to permit the players torecognize the general shape of the scoring targets 10 situated in thefield of play.

As is shown in FIGS. 1-5, the scoring target 10 is easily assembled byoperatively securing the netting 40 to the poles 30 and net supports 60,and then positioning the distal ends of the poles 30 and net supports 60into the pole securing mechanisms, such as the receiving tubes 22, ofthe footers 20. Not unlike the process of pitching a tent, the poles 30and net supports 60 are selectively bent, thereby raising or loweringthe distance between the netting and the ground surface, when thefooters 20 are moved closer together, or further apart. When the scoringtarget 10 is used on a golf driving range, or other outdoor groundsurface with a soil base, the length of the scoring targets sides 11 canbe selectively maintained by driving stakes 26 through the footers'holes 24 and into the ground surface's soil once a desirable length ofthe sides 11 is achieved.

In some embodiments of the invention, adapted preferably for indoor orother uses where maintaining position of the footers 20 cannot beaffected by use of stakes 26, the scoring target 10 also comprises oneor more adjustment belts 50 designed to selectively maintain, increase,or decrease the length of the scoring target's sides 11. As is shown inFIGS. 1 and 3, the adjustment belt 50 may optionally be a nylon strap,with holes, which is releasably secured between two footers 20, and mayoptionally include a buckle 52 or other such securing device 54, such asratchet straps, or other devices well-known in the art—that permitsselective lengthening or shortening of the scoring target's sides 11.Other materials and securing devices are known to persons of skill inthe art, and are intended to fall within the claims of the invention.

As is shown in FIG. 3, when the securing device 54 is used to shortenthe length (SL) of the adjustment belt, a process well-known in the art,and therefore not described in greater detail, greater pressure isapplied to the poles 30 or net supports 60, which are bent so as tocreate a higher net arch (HA). In contrast, then the securing device 54is used to increase the length (GL) of the adjustment belt, lesspressure is applied to the poles 30 or net supports 60, which are bentso as to create a lower net arch (LA). Higher and lower net arches, HA,LA, are also achieved when the footers 20 are staked into the ground incloser and farther positions relative to each other, as previouslydescribed herein.

As previously described, a scoring shot is one that stops either within,or under, the raised netting 40. Additionally, the likelihood ofachieving a scoring shot can be improved by enlarging the scoring zoneto include a boundary surrounding the target. By taking the diameter ofa circle or the length of a square target and extending a rope, or anysimilar material, around the scoring target 10 the possibility of ascoring shot can be expanded as desired by the golf range or user. Therope or other material is spiked into the ground or a circular or squarerope or other material could be placed outside the scoring target 10 tocreate this same difference in scoring opportunity. Scoring in theoutside additional area might optionally result in a fractional score of100%.

In some embodiments of the invention, a body of water can be used as ascoring target 10 target landing area. The invention may be played withwater targets only, or in combination with land based targets. Withwater based scoring targets, the footers 20 preferably utilize anadjustment band 50 to maintain the shape of the scoring target 10, andadditionally comprise a device, releasably secured to said footer 20,that is capable of maintaining the footer 20 in a floating positionabove, or near, the water's surface.

It is to be understood that the materials to be used in construction ofthe scoring target 10 may vary according to the preferences of personsof ordinary skill in the art. Materials used to construct the man-madetargets include steel in many variations. This includes, but is notlimited to: steel pipe of different diameters, strengths and coatings,flat stock steel, steel rods, fabricated steel parts, steal pins,specialty steel welded forms, screws, and clips. The owner may demandother steel parts as well. Another material used in construction isfiber glass in many diameters, coatings, strength's and properties.Netting is used as well and can be made of different materials and havedifferent properties due to the climate in which it is to be used,weather or visual preference. Plastic tubing of different sizes, colors,and properties as well as different connectors designed for plastic. Insome embodiments, the scoring targets 10 require target flags 29 as adistance marker, target identifier, and in certain instances to act as atarget to hit balls through. Rope is used in many different capacitiesand sizes, depending on the application. Water targets may requirebuoys, anchors, rope and additional materials as are known in the art;in one embodiment, a rope or other such connecting apparatus is runthrough the center of a “noodle” flotation device; in this embodiment,running a wire through the noodle' center hole facilitates the shapingof the scoring zone. Targets that are natural may need a retaining wall,stone, steel rods, support materials as well as netting and a frame forthe target. In one embodiment, the scoring target 10 consists of smallconduit pipe in the form of an X with a bolt connecting the two pieces.The small X would allow for telescoping conduit, different diameters ofpipe or fiberglass to reach the end of the entire target. At each end ofthe desired length of the X, a welded piece of metal would accept thethree pieces of materials. The welded piece of steel would have threepipe openings to accept the X and the two pieces of fiberglass thatcompletes the target. The target would be reinforced by ⅛^(th) inchcable on all four sides of the outer target. Another variation wouldallow for the four corners of the target to be steel plate with twowelded pipe fittings to capture the fiberglass poles and form a squaretarget that could move as one piece. It like above would require a cableto reinforce the sides. Both of these options would allow for a moreflexible and easier target to move.

In the exemplary embodiments described above, the targets consist of alightweight frame, using lightweight materials that can be easily moved,and if covered by a net, do not cause damage to the grass. By varyingthe length of poles 30 and net supports 60 used on sides 11, there maybe a tilt of the target from the back to the front for an easier visualsighting; in certain conditions, it could tilt the other way dependingon geography and visual pleasure.

Additionally, the netting 40 on scoring targets 10 can be customized forthe specific venue and may include: Spider Web Golf, the specific golfcourse venue logo, or any other character that is desired. This netting40 marking can be painted, sewn on, or constructed with differentmaterials or fabrics. There are many different embodiments of thetargets, dependent on the land area of use, which may be downhill,uphill, sloped or level. Owners may choose to use the preferredembodiment of the target design or another embodiment or will need anassortment of target shapes. While this embodiment uses the preferredwidth of the target, other embodiments can be customized to meetdemands, including available space, natural land or water deviations ordeviation in the course, or man-made areas.

In some embodiments, one or more of the footers 20 of the scoring target10 may be elevated in comparison to the positioning of other footers 20by a suitable support structure means such as plastic pipe, metal bars,wooden posts, fiberglass poles or other such structure and materials aschosen by a person of ordinary skill in the art, or the structure mayfloat on water.

According to a second general embodiment, the scoring target of thepresent invention is shown in FIGS. 6-8. Broadly speaking, and as bestshown from top-perspective views in FIG. 6, in this embodiment of thescoring target 100 the scoring zone (SZ) is an area of ground surfacedefined by a series of panels 110 that rise in a substantially verticaldirection from the ground surface. The size and shape of the scoringtarget 100 can vary depending on the preference of the user and thenumber of panels selected and used to define the scoring zone SZ. Insome embodiments, elected in the discretion of a person of ordinaryskill in the art, the panels 110 can define any known multi-sided, orcircular, shape, or no widely recognized shape, or merely a straightline of panels 110 over which golfers might attempt to direct a shot ofa specified distance from the tee box.

In one embodiment, shown in FIG. 6, five panels 110 are arranged in amanner that produces a substantially hexagonal shape when viewed from atop-perspective. In preferred embodiments, one non-limiting example ofwhich is shown in FIG. 6, the shape defined by the arrangement of panels110 has an open side 120 that permits golf shots taken in the course ofthe simulated golf game, or other golf training session, to roll orbounce into the scoring zone SZ. In the most preferred embodiment, theopen side 120 constitutes a length roughly ¼ of the circumference of thescoring zone SZ, although other lengths of open sides 120 can beutilized at the discretion of the user. In other embodiments, thearrangement of panels may delineate a closed shape, of the user'schoice, having no open side 120.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the panels 110 areconstructed of a material similar to the netting 40 previously describedherein. In other embodiments, the panels 110 may be constructed of asubstantially non-deformable material such as plastic or metals. Thethickness of the panels may vary depending on the selection of personsof skill in the art. According to some versions, the panels areindividual sections, of a length and height chosen by a person ofordinary skill in the art, but in preferred embodiments, the panelsconsist of four foot long sections of netting with a height ofapproximately fourteen inches. In other embodiments, the panels 110 maybe stitched together, or consist of a unitary stretch of materialwherein the panels are defined by vertical sleeves, colored stripes, orthe placement of fasteners 142.

As shown in FIG. 7, according to some embodiments of the invention, apanel may consist of two vertical ends 112 and two horizontal ends 114.The vertical ends 112 are adapted to attach to pegs 130 that areoperatively partially driven into the ground surface (GS), or insertedinto footers 22 as is detailed below. Vertical ends 112 can releasablyattach to the portions of pegs 130 that extend above the ground surfaceGS with one or more fasteners 142, which not unlike the fastenersalready described, may consist of hooks, hook-and-loop fasteners,sleeves, or other means for releasably receiving and securing the panels110 to the pegs 130. In some versions, the panels 110 are operativelyinstalled so as to be in contact with the ground surface (GS) andprevent golf balls from rolling under the panel 110; while in stillother versions, shown in FIGS. 6-7, a small space is left between thepanel 110 and the ground surface GS to permit balls to roll into thescoring zone SZ.

Pegs 130 are substantially non-deformable poles or stakes, as are wellknown in the art, that can be either driven directly into the groundsurface GS, as shown in FIGS. 6-8, or received within a ground socket132 (of any size known to persons of skill in the art), as is well-knownin the art and shown in partial cross-sectional view in FIG. 8. In oneembodiment, the peg 130 is twenty inches long; it is inserted into a 6inch ground socket 132 pre-installed in the ground (for example, by ahole being augered into the soil, and then the ground socket 132 beinginserted); wherein when the peg 130 is inserted into the ground socket132, fourteen inches of the peg 132 rises above the ground surface GS,and attaches to fasteners 142 of an associated panel 110. Onceinstalled, this embodiment has a scoring zone defined by a series ofpanels that extend vertically from the ground surface GS to define thescoring zone elected by the user. In other embodiments, the length ofthe peg 130 may be operatively chosen depending on the height of thepanel 110 and the depth of the ground socket 132. In some embodiments,the panels 110 do not comprise fasteners 142, but instead, the pegs 132comprise integrated fasteners 142; in still other versions, thefasteners 142 are separate and apart from both the pegs 130 and thepanels 110, but are adapted to secure the panels to the pegs 130. Insome embodiments, the pegs 130 can be inserted into a footer 20 adaptedto additionally comprise a substantially vertical receiving tube 22, aspreviously described herein.

As previously mentioned, the sizes and shapes of scoring targets 10, 100vary. When utilized in conjunction with the above-disclosed simulatedgolf game, the sizes of the scoring targets 10, 100 will preferably begreater the further from the tee box area. Additionally, although squareand roughly circular (hexagonal) scoring targets 10, 100 have been shownas illustrative embodiments of the invention, it is to be understoodthat the scoring targets 10, 100 might consist of more, or less, footers20 and/or panels 110 to provide the target with more or less sides 11,and in turn a different shape. Furthermore, the length of the poles 30and net supports 60 might be of different sizes—and the size and surfacearea of the netting 40 may correspondingly be varied—to impart differentaesthetic properties to the shape of the scoring target 10. Depending onthe owner's preference, the game may have a different look than anyother Spider Web Golf venue, but will be practiced, scored or comparedto any other game. Additionally, in some embodiments a bullseye flag,not shown, may be inserted into the ground surface on a chosen portionof the scoring zone to further designate a hole-in-one type shot (thatmight be awarded additional scoring points, in one embodiment of thegame). Said bullseye flag have an ornamental design displayed at its topportion; perhaps on a flag, sign, or other ornamental display mechanism;in on embodiment, the bullseye flag might be a flag pole having a spiderdesign sign at the top portion.

Advantages provided by the invention include:

-   -   A golfer is more likely to use this game of hitting balls, at a        driving range, golf course, country club or other venue, because        it is scored. Scoring provides a record of strengths and        weaknesses and informs the golfer as to where improvement is        needed, and provides a tangible record of improvement. Scoring        also allows the game to be played competitively, against one's        own personal best or against other players.    -   The game can be played against oneself, against a competitor,        locally or around the world. The competitor may be present or        not present at the time of play.    -   A complete round can be played in as little as 30 minutes.    -   The game is not self-limiting, and in fact encourages        participation by women golfers (4% of market); competitive youth        players (can fit in up to 10 rounds a day) and a venue for        elderly or handicapped players.    -   The game provides increased revenue for all facilities    -   The game provides potential increased revenue for PGA pros and        coaches.    -   It allows for players of different ability levels to play        together (example: families); new golfers can learn the game        without slowing down other players or groups of players.    -   The game will encourage the return to the game of golf for        golfers who have left the game due to time or financial        concerns.

The embodiments have been described herein above. It will be apparent tothose skilled in the art that the above-methods and apparatuses mayincorporate changes and modifications without departing from the generalscope of this invention. It is intended to include all suchmodifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope ofthe appended claims or equivalences thereof. Although the descriptionsabove contain much specificity, this should not be construed as limitingthe scope of the invention, but is merely providing illustrations ofsome of the embodiments of this invention. Other embodiments andramifications, including various combinations of all of the componentsdescribed herein and known to persons of skill in the art, are possiblewithin its scope.

Furthermore, notwithstanding, the numerical ranges and examples setforth the broad scope of the invention are approximations. Differentweightings can be added to the scores to provide a differentmeasurement, but are considered within the scope of the invention.

Having thus described the invention, it is now claimed:

I/We claim:
 1. A scoring target or use in association with a simulatedgolf game, or golf training session, comprising: footers adapted tostably support the scoring target in an assembled position andreleasably receive and secure at least two associated poles; polesadapted to bend in an upward arch when operatively received and securedwithin the footers; and netting adapted to be supported by associatedpoles; wherein the footers are located on an associated ground surface;wherein bent poles are operatively received within, and connect, saidfooters; and wherein the netting defines a scoring zone when supportedin a position above the ground surface by the arrangement of poles andfooters.
 2. The scoring target of claim 2, additionally comprising:netting having outer edges with fasteners adapted to releasably securethe netting to associated poles, and inner portions with fastenersadapted to releasably secure the netting to associated net supports. 3.The scoring target of claim 1, additionally comprising: footers withreceiving tubes adapted to securely receive associated poles and netsupports; and net supports adapted to bend in an upward arch, connectsaid footers, and operatively support the inner portions of anassociated netting when received and secured within said receiving tubesand releasably secured by associated fasteners.
 4. The scoring target ofclaim 3, wherein the footers are substantially planar plates.
 5. Thescoring target of claim 4, additionally comprising: one or more targetflags designating a successful pas through golf shot; and footersadditionally comprising flag tubes adapted to releasably secure saidtarget flags in a substantially vertical position relative to a groundsurface.
 6. The scoring target of claim 4, additionally comprising:stakes adapted to be driven into an associated ground surface; andfooters with holes adapted to receive said stakes and secure the scoringtarget onto an associated ground surface.
 7. The scoring target of claim4, additionally comprising: an adjustment band, operatively attached totwo associated footers, and adapted to selectively increase or decreasethe distance between said associated footers.
 8. A scoring target or usein association with a simulated golf game, or golf training session,comprising: footers comprising: a substantially planar plate adapted tostably support the scoring target on an associated ground surface in anassembled position, at least two receiving tubes adapted to releasablyreceive and secure an associated pole and net support, and a flag tubeadapted to releasably secure an associated target flag; poles adapted tobend in an upward arch when operatively received and secured withinassociated footer receiving tubes; net supports adapted to adapted tobend in an upward arch when received and secured within associatedfooter receiving tubes; netting having outer edges with fastenersadapted to releasably secure the netting to associated poles, and innerportions with fasteners adapted to releasably secure the netting toassociated net supports; and one or more target flags; wherein thefooters are located on an associated ground surface; wherein bent polesare operatively received within receiving tubes, releasably attached tonetting via fasteners, and connect said footers and support the outeredges of netting; wherein bent net supports are operatively receivedwithin receiving tubes, releasably attached to netting via fasteners,and connect said footers and support the inner portions of netting;wherein the target flag is releasably secured within said flag tube andis situated in a substantially vertical position relative to a groundsurface; and wherein the netting defines a scoring zone when supportedin a position above the ground surface by the arrangement of poles, netsupports, and footers.
 9. A scoring target for use in association with asimulated golf game, or golf training session, comprising: substantiallynon-deformable pegs adapted to support an associated panel; fastenersadapted to releasably secure said pegs to an associated panel; and anarrangement of two or more panels, wherein said panels are releasablysecured to pegs with fasteners and extend vertically from an associatedground surface in a configuration that defines a scoring zone.